Darwin & Orellana Discovery Tour
Discover the highlights of the natural side of Ecuador in this 11-day, 10-night adventure. The wildlife of the Galápagos Islands can only be matched by that of the Amazon, and, luckily, you won’t have to choose between them.
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Itinerary & Tour Information
Arrival at Scalesia Lodge
Fly from Quito to Baltra, followed by water and ground transfers to Scalesia Lodge. Enjoy lunch upon arrival and spend your afternoon settling into the lodge. Dinner is served at the lodge, marking the start of your Galápagos adventure.
Exploring Isabela Island
Spend two full days immersed in the unique landscapes of Isabela Island. Activities vary depending on the day of your visit, offering a mix of snorkeling, trekking, and wildlife observation.
Monday
AM: Tintoreras walk & snorkel tour
PM: Wetlands & Tortoise Breeding Station visit
Tuesday
AM: Túneles snorkel tour
PM: Wall of Tears trekking or bike tour
Wednesday
AM: Chico & Sierra Negra Volcanoes trekking tour
PM: Sucre’s Cave, El Mango viewpoint & free time at the beach
Thursday
AM: Tintoreras walk & snorkel tour
PM: Wetlands & Tortoise Breeding Station visit
Friday
AM: Túneles snorkel tour
PM: Free time at the beach & activities (biking, surfing or kayaking available with additional charge)
Saturday
AM: Wall of Tears trekking or bike tour
PM: Concha de Perla snorkel tour & free time at the beach
Sunday
AM: Chico & Sierra Negra Volcanoes trekking tour
PM: Sucre’s Cave, El Mango viewpoint & free time at the beach
Transfer to Finch Bay Hotel
After breakfast at Scalesia Lodge, fly to Baltra and continue to Finch Bay Hotel. Visit the natural volcanic formation Los Gemelos and the Tortoise Reserve, where lunch is served. Transfer to Finch Bay Hotel and enjoy free time in the evening for dinner at the lodge or nearby Santa Cruz restaurants.
Yacht Excursion to Galápagos Islands
Embark on a full-day yacht adventure, exploring one of the Galápagos Islands. Each outing includes an excursion and lunch on board before returning to Santa Cruz:
- Thursdays – Santa Fe Island
- Tuesdays & Saturdays – Bartolomé Island + Sullivan Bay
- Wednesdays & Fridays – South Plaza Island + Punta Carrión
- Mondays & Sundays – North Seymour Island + Las Bachas Beach
Santa Cruz Exploration
After breakfast, explore Santa Cruz with visits to Bahía Divine and the Charles Darwin Research Station, including its Tortoise Breeding Facilities. Lunch is served at Finch Bay Hotel, with the evening free for dinner at the hotel or in Santa Cruz, allowing time to relax and reflect on your island adventures.
Return to Quito
Transfer from Finch Bay Hotel to Baltra’s airport for your flight back to Quito. Upon arrival in Quito, transfer to your airport hotel and enjoy a free afternoon and evening to rest or explore the city.
Arrival at Sacha Lodge
After breakfast at the airport hotel, transfer to Quito’s airport for your flight to Coca and onward travel to Sacha Lodge. Arrive at the lodge for lunch and an afternoon activity guided by local naturalist guides. Dinner at the Lodge completes your first evening in the Amazon.
Full Days at Sacha Lodge
Spend two full days immersed in the Amazon rainforest. Morning, afternoon, and evening activities allow you to explore the reserve’s trails, waterways, and canopy platforms. All meals are served at the Lodge, with opportunities to observe wildlife, connect with the forest, and experience nocturnal excursions.
Farewell from Sacha Lodge
After breakfast, transfer from Sacha Lodge to Coca and board your flight back to Quito. Your journey concludes with unforgettable memories of the Galápagos Islands and the Ecuadorian Amazon.
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What's Included
- Accommodations:
- 3 nights at Scalesia Lodge (b/l/d)*
- 3 nights at Finch Bay Hotel (b/l/-)
- 1 night at Quito airport hotel (b)
- Airport-Hotel-Airport transfers
- 3 nights at Sacha Lodge (b/l/d)
- Flights:
- Quito – Baltra – Quito
- Baltra – Puerto Villamil – Baltra
- Quito – Coca – Quito
- Luggage storage before inter-island flight
- Puerto Villamil entrance fee
- All ground and water transportation
- Guided excursions in English, German or French**
- Water, coffee and/or tea with meals
- Wine during dinners at Scalesia Lodge and Sacha Lodge
- Wi-Fi
- Local taxes
What’s Not Included
- Other alcoholic & non-alcoholic drinks
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Gratuities
- Galápagos National Park entrance fee (USD $200 per person)
- Galápagos Transit Card (USD $20 per person)
- Massages or spa treatments
Accommodations
Scalesia Lodge
Galápagos from the highlandsA safari-style lodge in Isabela Island’s lush highlands, Scalesia offers panoramic views, personalized service, and adventures, from exploring volcanic landscapes to snorkeling among striking underwater formations.
Finch Bay Hotel
Coastal calm in the GalápagosFinch Bay Hotel is a beachfront retreat on Santa Cruz Island, combining sustainable luxury with comfortable day trips to nearby islands and close encounters with the Galápagos’ unique wildlife.
Sacha Lodge
The essence of the AmazonSituated in the heart of Ecuador’s Amazon rainforest, Sacha Lodge provides the perfect blend of authenticity and comfort. Spacious rooms with air conditioning and forest-view decks provide a cool retreat after a day of adventure. The lodge’s architecture harmonizes with the rainforest, while modern amenities ensure a restful stay. Between excursions, relax in the Lake Pool, unwind in a hammock, visit the Butterfly House, or explore our Cacao Experience.
Our Booking Process
1. Send Your Inquiry
Fill out our quick online form and let us know your ideal dates and travel preferences.
2. Talk with Our Team
We’ll contact you by email, phone, or WhatsApp to help personalize your Ecuador adventure.
3. Get Your Quote
Receive a custom itinerary and clear pricing based on availability and your travel needs.
4. Galapagos Booking
For Galapagos extensions, a deposit is required at booking; balance is due 60 days before arrival.
Why Book with Us?
One Journey, Many Worlds
From the Amazon to the Andes to the Galápagos, discover Ecuador’s wild diversity in one seamless, elevated adventure.
Expertly Run, Locally Rooted
Each property is locally owned and directly managed by our team, ensuring consistent quality, local insight, and expert coordination.
Curated Collection
A balance of comfort, biodiversity, and cultural depth crafted for those who seek more than just a place to stay.
Everything Taken Care Of
Flights, transfers, guides, and meals are all coordinated, so you can focus on the experience.
Over 30 Years of Trust
For over three decades, we’ve earned the trust of discerning travelers and travel experts through consistent excellence.
Other Programs
Live the magic of the Ecuadorian AmazonExtend or customize your journey to fit your travel style. Choose from all our Amazon programs, from short immersions to extended explorations. For a truly unforgettable trip, combine your stay with the Galápagos Islands or the majestic Andes for the ultimate Ecuador experience.
Browse All Programs & Itineraries
Explore our full collection of programs and extensions across Ecuador, thoughtfully coordinated around your dates, pace, and priorities.
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Sacha Lodge Amazon Adventures
Experience the Amazon with forest walks, canoe rides, and canopy views, while spotting wildlife and discovering vibrant cultures.
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Galapagos & Andes Extensions
From the Andes to the Galapagos, extend your trip across Ecuador’s four worlds, with stunning landscapes and seamless service.
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CHUCK
08/13/2025
Wonderful experience!
Fantastic experience from start to finish, cannot fault a thing. Luxurious, yet understated...
MBENNETTS
08/12/2025
A Hidden Gem in the Ecuadorian Amazon!
The Sacha Lodge is a gem in the rain forest. It is first class - excellent food, accommodations...
PAULA T
07/10/2025
Great introduction to the Amazon
Great lodge in a wonderful location. We had a great stay for a few days. Lots of activity...
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